When we talk about Hollywood legends, the name Samuel L. Jackson surely echoes loudly. With a career spanning over four decades, Jackson has etched his name in cinematic history with iconic roles, but none so memorable as Marvel’s ‘Nick Fury’. Recently, the veteran actor graced the airwaves of Sway In The Morning and gave fans an exciting glimpse into his return as Fury in the highly anticipated Marvel series, “Secret Invasion.”
Samuel L. Jackson’s legacy in Hollywood is undeniable. His dynamic performances have captivated audiences worldwide, but it was his portrayal of the enigmatic ‘Nick Fury’ that truly cemented his status as a pop culture icon. The eyepatch-wearing, no-nonsense leader of S.H.I.E.L.D. has been a constant thread weaving through the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
During his conversation on Sway In The Morning, Jackson shone a light on his reprisal of Nick Fury, a character he’s nurtured for over a decade. He spoke about the evolution of Fury and how this new series, streaming on Disney+, allows him to delve deeper into the character’s complex layers.
While Jackson kept a tight lid on most of the plot specifics (in true Marvel fashion), he did hint at a narrative brimming with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected alliances. He shared that “Secret Invasion” is set to push the boundaries of what fans have come to expect from the MCU, teasing that each episode will be a rollercoaster ride of emotions and surprises.
The palpable excitement buzzing around “Secret Invasion.” Samuel L. Jackson’s return as Nick Fury promises to be a thrilling journey, one that will further expand the already rich tapestry of the MCU.
So, mark your calendars for June 21st, folks! Prepare for a world of secrets and betrayals, where nothing is as it seems. Rest assured, this is one Marvel adventure you don’t want to miss!
Stay tuned to this space for more updates and insights into your favorite shows and movies. Until then, keep the fandom spirit alive!
There’s a fresh wave of laughter on the horizon, and it’s coming from BET+’s latest hit show, “Average Joe.” Headlined by the brilliant Deon Cole, this series is anything but average. It’s a unique blend of humor and intrigue that you won’t find anywhere else.
“Average Joe” is a dark comedy inspired by the life of its creator, Robb Cullen. The storyline navigates the unexpected twists and turns in the life of Joe Washington, a blue-collar plumber portrayed by Cole. According to the official synopsis, Joe’s life takes a dramatic turn when he unravels a shocking truth about his recently deceased father. It turns out, his father led a secret double life and had stolen millions of dollars from some dangerous individuals shortly before his demise.
Cole, well-known for his impeccable comic timing, steps into the shoes of the titular character, delivering a performance that is both emotionally nuanced and hilariously relatable. His portrayal of an ordinary man caught up in extraordinary circumstances is a testament to his versatility as an actor.
Joining Cole is an ensemble cast that enhances the series’ charm. Tammy Townsend, Malcolm Barrett, Cynthia Kaye McWilliams, Michael Trucco, Ashley Olivia Fisher, Pasha Lychnikoff, and Ashani Perkins all bring their unique talents to the table, creating an engaging dynamic that keeps viewers hooked from the first episode.
“Average Joe” is not just a show; it’s a rollercoaster ride brimming with laughter, suspense, and heartfelt moments. It provides a refreshing take on the dark comedy genre, balancing the absurdity of the situation with the relatability of the characters. This makes it a must-watch for anyone seeking a good laugh and a captivating storyline.
BET+ has indeed struck gold with “Average Joe.” This new series is a testament to the network’s commitment to providing diverse and high-quality content. So, if you’re ready to embark on a hilarious journey filled with unexpected twists, tune in to “Average Joe” – because there’s nothing average about this show.
“The Blackening” is more than just a horror film; it’s an ingenious social critique that delves into the intricacies of Black culture. Interestingly, the movie tackles themes of racial bias in society with more finesse than it instills fear in its viewers. The plot revolves around a group of nine college friends who gather for a Juneteenth weekend celebration. They find themselves in a sprawling house nestled in the woods, where they stumble upon the board game, “The Blackening.” The game triggers a wave of terror that engulfs their reunion, effectively mirroring the concept of ‘Scream’ meeting ‘Get Out.’
The clever script is the brainchild of Tracy Oliver, known for her work on the comedy “Girls Trip,” and Dewayne Perkins, who also adds his comedic talent to the cast. Their combined efforts result in a script rich in sharp wit, humor, and understated comedy. The film truly shines in its authentic depiction of Black culture, from insider jokes and pop culture references to a candid exploration of Blackness. This aspect sets “The Blackening” apart as a distinctive thriller.
“The Blackening” may be categorized as a thriller, but under the experienced guidance of director Tim Story, known for “Barbershop” and “Think Like a Man,” it unfolds as an intricate commentary on Black culture. The film cleverly weaves in Black humor, references to Black pop culture, and nuanced representations of Blackness. It’s the kind of film that hinges on the complexities of the card game Spades and includes dialogue that highlights racial identity with lines like, “You are an original African. You’re a still-in-its-original-packaging Black.” Even the appearance of a Park Ranger is met with a tongue-in-cheek remark such as, “I’ve never been so happy to see a white savior.” This savvy blend of humor and cultural commentary sets “The Blackening” apart from the conventional thriller.
Prepare to be captivated by the star-studded ensemble cast of the upcoming action thriller, “The Blackening”. This cinematic tour-de-force features the talents of Antoinette Robertson, Dewayne Perkins, Sinqua Walls, Grace Byers, X Mayo, Melvin Gregg, Jermaine Fowler, Yvonne Orji, Jay Pharoah, and James Preston Rogers.
Each actor brings a unique energy and depth to their respective roles. Robertson embodies strength and resilience, while Perkins infuses his character with humor and wit. Walls brings a level of intensity that’s riveting, while Byers showcases her range with a nuanced performance. X Mayo adds a layer of authenticity with her grounded portrayal, and Gregg’s charismatic screen presence is impossible to ignore. Fowler, Orji, and Pharoah each deliver performances that are both compelling and relatable, while Rogers rounds out the cast with a powerful display of his acting prowess.
This dynamic team of actors breathes life into “The Blackening,” creating a narrative that is as engaging as it is thrilling. This film isn’t just an action-packed roller coaster ride – it’s a showcase of some of the most talented actors in the industry today. Mark your calendars for the release of “The Blackening” – you won’t want to miss it!
In the heart of Atlanta, an electric buzz fills the air as legendary rapper Killer Mike gears up to introduce his latest solo project, ‘MICHAEL,’ to the world. Anticipation runs high, not just for the album’s official release on June 16th but for the unique celebration orchestrated in collaboration with Idea Generation and Tres Generaciones Tequila. This isn’t just any album launch; it’s a homecoming, a testament to resilience, and a showcase of deep personal insight. Killer Mike, alongside friends like the multifaceted CeeLo Green, actor Ryan Davis, and the iconic DJ Cutmaster Swiff, hosted an evening that transcended typical album playback sessions.
Through a live interview, fans and friends got an intimate glimpse into what makes ‘MICHAEL’ Killer Mike’s most personal album yet. Idea Generation Founder/CEO Noah Callahan-Bever navigated the conversation, unraveling the layers of passion, struggle, and triumph embedded in the album’s tracks. But the night didn’t end there. Fueled by the spirit of Tres Generaciones Tequila, the guests were treated to spontaneous performances by Killer Mike and CeeLo Green themselves, embodying the ‘Fail Twice #GetUpTres’ motto.
This event wasn’t just a preview of what’s to come with ‘MICHAEL’; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience within us all, the beauty of overcoming hardships, and the unifying power of music. Killer Mike’s narrative in ‘MICHAEL’ and the album launch event stand as beacons of inspiration, urging everyone to find their ‘get up’ moment against all odds.
Get ready for a harmonious exploration of America’s national soundscape with the documentary “Anthem,” premiering on Wednesday, June 28th on Hulu. This compelling film is directed by Ryan Coogler, whose wife, Zinzi Coogler, serves as an executive producer.
“Anthem” offers a fresh perspective on “The Star-Spangled Banner,” reimagining it through the lens of today’s America. The film follows the journey of acclaimed composer Kris Bowers, known for his work on “Bridgerton,” “When They See Us,” and “King Richard,” and Grammy-winning music producer Dahi, who has collaborated with artists like Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake. Together, they traverse the country, crafting a new sound inspired by what our national anthem could be if written in the present day.
Produced by Proximity Media and This Machine, “Anthem” sees Peter Nicks serving as both director and producer via Proximity Media. He works alongside producers Kris Bowers, Sean Havey, Chris L. Jenkins, and Ryan Coogler of Proximity Media.
“Anthem” promises to be more than just a documentary; it’s a melodic exploration of American identity, capturing the diverse voices that make up the country’s cultural symphony. Mark your calendars for this musical journey that promises to redefine the way we perceive our national anthem.
Get ready to embark on a wild and whimsical journey as Boots Riley, the mastermind behind “Sorry to Bother You,” returns with a brand new series, “I’m a Virgo,” premiering soon on Amazon Prime Video. Featuring an all-star cast including Jharrel Jerome (Moonlight), Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight), and Olivia Washington (The Little Things), this show is set to redefine the genre of coming-of-age tales.
“I’m a Virgo” tells the extraordinary story of Cootie, a 13-foot-tall black man who’s anything but ordinary. This surreal saga of self-discovery, narrated through seven captivating episodes releasing on June 23, 2023, will be streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime.
The trailer, set to the beat of Tune-Yards’ “Gangsta,” introduces us to the larger-than-life Cootie, whose towering height leads to some comically disastrous consequences for his family home. As we follow Cootie’s adventures from his youth to adulthood, we see his family’s efforts to shield him from a world that might exploit his unique stature.
However, Cootie’s infectious curiosity and thirst for adventure eventually lead him outside the confines of his home and into the vibrant world of Oakland, California. The trailer entices viewers to join Cootie on his fantastical journey of self-exploration, promising an unforgettable ride.
In this series, Jharrel Jerome brings Cootie to life, portraying an average guy with an extraordinary height of 13 feet. Jerome’s stellar performance adds depth and nuance to Cootie’s character, making him relatable despite his unusual circumstances. After all, he’s just a Virgo who loves adventure!
Accompanying Jerome is an ensemble cast that includes Walton Goggins as “The Hero,” a superhero idolized by Cootie, and Olivia Washington as Flora. Not to mention, there are cameos from LaKeith Stanfield (Sorry to Bother You), Elijah Wood (The Lord of the Rings), and Kendrick Sampson (Insecure) to look forward to!
“I’m a Virgo” is a product of the creative genius of Boots Riley, a renowned figure in the musical and film industry known for his unapologetic anti-capitalist politics. His distinctive style that made “Sorry to Bother You” a cult classic is evident in “I’m a Virgo,” making it a must-watch series for fans of his work.
Co-showrunner Tze Chun, known for his work on Fox’s Gotham and ABC’s Once Upon a Time, joins Riley in bringing this project to life. The series’ soundtrack is provided by Riley’s group The Coup, while the score is courtesy of the Oakland-based project, Tune-Yards.
With its blend of absurdity, fantasy, and relatability, “I’m a Virgo” promises to be an exciting addition to Amazon Prime’s roster. So, mark your calendars for June 23, 2023, and get ready for a joyous rollercoaster ride with Cootie!
At a night full of wins, challenges, and the unwavering spirit of hip hop, Dante Ross, the legendary A&R and record producer, unveiled his much-anticipated memoir, “Son of the City,” at the Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn, NY. Teaming up with Idea Generation and Tres Generaciones Tequila, the event introduced the new live interview series, “Idea Generation LIVE: Building Sessions.” In a cozy chat with Noah Callahan-Bever, the founder of Idea Generation, Ross delved into his career highlights. He shared stories about his early days with iconic acts like the Beastie Boys, his groundbreaking decision to sign De La Soul, and the journey to crafting a Grammy-winning album.
Beyond his professional feats, Ross emphasized the grit needed to overcome industry challenges. The night wasn’t just about looking back; it was a party, complete with Tres Generaciones Tequila cocktails and music by Operator EMZ and DJ Clark Kent. This partnership with Idea Generation and Tres Generaciones isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a salute to music’s power to spark ‘get up’ moments. It embodies resilience, echoing their Fail Twice, #GetUpTres initiative that encourages us to bounce back after a setback. For a peek into the night’s fun and stories, check out images from the event.
If you’re familiar with the music industry at all, then you know that most artists don’t make a lot, if much money simply from just streaming their music. Music is like many other creative and business industries where a middle man is acting as a gatekeeper between the creator and their audience, taking a share of the revenue generated and withholding seamless 1:1 connection.
That’s to say nothing of a change in algorithm or product roadmap that can often leave the artist or creator at the mercy of the company and their shifting priorities. Many other industries have been positively disrupted by going direct to consumer and we believe it’s time to do the same for music.
EVEN was founded on two simple, yet powerful beliefs:
Artists should make a living off of their music.
Artists and their supporters should have a direct connection.
That premise, that there’s a better, a fairer way for artists to make a living off of their art, and that artists and fans deserve to be connected in a meaningful way, is the foundation of our mission and how we support the artist and fan communities.
EVEN’s technology allows artists and their teams to sell their music directly to fans before uploading their music on streaming patforms. Artists and their teams determine how many albums they want to sell, the price point of each and get paid instantly. Artists and teams are able to input payment splits upfront so all collaborators are paid out daily as opposed to the typical quarterly or longer industry payouts. Artists also determine the type of rewards and access that they want to offer to fans.
Our first release with LaRussell,I Hate When Life’s Going Great,generated not only headlines across media and the music community, but we also proved out the value of the platform and signaled a new possibility for artists and creatives.
By leveraging a pay-what-you-want model, LaRussell was able to generate almost $100K in direct sales from over 4,00 fans. To put that into perspective, he would have needed to stream about 31MM+ times and would’ve needed millions of fans to stream to be able to come close to what he earned using EVEN. Beyond the financial payout, LaRussell was able to leverage his audience insight, building a list of his most passionate fans to better optimize his live strategy.
Fans were rewarded for their support as well. They got to listen to the music sevin days before the streaming release, received lifelong access to the project and everyone who made a purchase was rewarded with a physical CD and opportunity to connect with LaRussell directly online and IRL. Our technology allows fans to be rewarded with physical goods, online and IRL experiences, merch, tour tickets, whatever the artist can dream up.
We saw so many people commenting, supporting LaRussell and rooting for him. They felt more invested because they took an active role in his and the music’s success. This exchange of value is part of what makes being a creator and a fan so special.
That is not to say that we’re anti streaming. We recognize the value of streaming and streaming platforms; we just believe that artists should have more tools at their disposal. On EVEN you can sell your music first, earn the proper revenue and connection, and stream second. We’ve seen that this strategy, selling first to a core group of dedicated fans, has positive trickle down effects on the overall success of a project. Artists end up streaming more, targeting their audience more efficiently and gaining valuable insight for each subsequent release.
So far, we’ve done releases with LaRussell, French Montana, Xavier Omar, 38 Spesh, Destin Conrad and many others during our soft launch. This year we’re gearing up to open the platform to more artists and to build more tools for artists and fans to connect and community features that enable fans to connect with each other. We’re passionate about and invested in the success of the artist community and are excited to become a resource of education and knowledge for any artist to learn the ins and outs of the industry and how to best succeed in it. Be sure to follow us on Instagram for more information, more updates and to be the first to know about new releases and features.
If you’re interested in learning more or connecting with the EVEN team feel free to email info@even.biz.
In his transformative book, “Why Should White Guys Have All the Wealth?,” Cedric Nash confronts a crucial question that challenges our conventional understanding of wealth creation. The book’s bold title doesn’t just pose an audacious query regarding the distribution of wealth; it meticulously dissects the systemic factors that prevent a vast majority from enjoying similar financial success.
Nash doesn’t stop at identifying the problem, he offers the solution in his revolutionary M$M wealth-building system. This approach intricately weaves together the power of mindset, values, and actionable financial steps into a potent formula aimed at propelling individuals from the lowest economic rung to the zenith of wealth. Nash’s M$M system pivots on the principle of making money work for you, offering guidance on how to maximize earning potential and smartly allocate investments across securities, real estate, entrepreneurship, and alternative options.
This book diverges from the industry-standard financial advice and the deluge of get-rich-quick schemes. Nash’s engaging narrative, enlivened with anecdotes, humor, and tangible, practical advice, makes the reader feel as if they are in a conversation with a trusted mentor – a mentor who happens to be a millionaire and wants you to be one too.
In a world where the wealth gap increasingly aligns with racial disparities, Nash’s book is a clarion call for change. It presents an accessible starting point for everyone, irrespective of their current financial standing, to embark on a journey towards financial independence. In essence, Nash’s book isn’t merely a personal finance guide, but a comprehensive strategy to build lasting wealth and a tool to address and close the racial wealth gap. The message is clear: Start here. Start now. Build wealth. Close the racial gap.
Shonda Rhimes has been the face of television for nearly two decades and her latest show, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, streaming on Netflix, has once again proven why her name holds such immense power in the industry. Rhimes has been successful in creating, writing, and producing some of the most iconic shows which have changed the landscape of television. In this blog, we’ll explore the genius of Shonda Rhimes and how she is revolutionizing the TV industry one show at a time.
Shonda Rhimes has been a trailblazer in the world of television since the premiere of Grey’s Anatomy in 2005. Her storytelling ability, coupled with her business acumen, has led her to create some of the most popular and diverse shows on TV. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is the latest addition to this list. The six-episode series explores the origin story of Queen Charlotte, a character from the original Bridgerton series, and the first Black queen of England. The show is a powerful example of Rhimes’ vision and storytelling ability, bringing a mix of history and fantasy to our screens.
Image by Andrew young
Another hallmark of Rhimes’ shows is the diversity of her characters. In an industry that often falls short on representation, Rhimes’ shows feature characters from various backgrounds, which is what makes them so accessible. From ABC’s hit show, How To Get Away With Murder to Grey’s Anatomy, Rhimes ensures that everyone in the audience sees a little bit of themselves on the screen.
Rhimes is also becoming a champion of the streaming age. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a Netflix original series, and the latest of many shows produced by Shondaland for various platforms. The streaming age has allowed creators to explore their passion projects more freely and more creatively, and Rhimes has taken full advantage of this. She is now entering a new era with her first series on Netflix, and it looks like she’s going to be a prominent force in this new world of serialized television.
